Optional was the Chevrolet-built 112 hp 2.8L (173 cid) V6, and the 150 hp Chevrolet-built 5.0L (305 cid) V8. The base engine in the base model was now the 92 hp "Iron Duke" 2.5L (151 cid) I4. There was a major shakeup in the drivetrain department as well. The Formula model unfortunately gone, but its absence was only temporary as it would return 5 years later. There were now the base Firebird, the S/E (which replaced the Esprit), and of course the Trans Am. Dashboards eliminated the conventional glovebox, replaced with what some referred to as an "oversized wallet" in its place, a change not everyone approved of. This greatly added to its utility, and was much better than the footlocker-sized trunk of the previous version. The sleek, aerodynamically styled body sported pop-up headlamps, and while it retained the same basic taillight design, the new body was also a hatchback with a fold-down rear seat. The Firebird was still a rear-drive 2+2 design, but it weighed in at about 300-400 lbs lighter than the 2nd gens. Here's a brief rundown on the 3rd and 4th gen Firebirds: ![]() Pontiac Firebird 1967-1981 for information about the first two generations. ![]() The final 4th gen Firebird would ultimately be the best built, most economical and fastest Firebird ever before GM pulled the plug on them at the end of 2002 after 36 model years. The 3rd gen Firebird would last almost as long as its 2nd gen predecessor, lasting 11 model years, and would be redesigned in 1993. ![]() The Firebird (and of course the Chevrolet Camaro) would now put a much greater emphasis on utility, modern aerodynamic styling, and, of course, fuel economy. After 15 successful model years, the Pontiac Firebird would become an entirely different animal with the 3rd and 4th gen models.
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